How to Reignite Your Sex Life after Having a Baby

Have you had a baby—and lost your sex life? You’re not alone. It’s the rare couple that can have a baby and not miss a beat sexually. But you can get back that lovin’ feeling.

Instructions

: Get your doctor’s go-ahead before having intercourse. Most advise waiting six weeks after childbirth.

Step 1: Pinpoint the problem Try to pinpoint what’s coming between you and connubial bliss. Does sex hurt? Are you exhausted? Self-conscious about the extra pounds you’ve yet to lose? Too wrapped up in your baby to even think about sex?

Step 2: Resolve Resolve to tackle the issues that apply to you one by one. For most new parents, it’s a combination of things.

Step 3: Try new positions If painful intercourse is the problem, try different positions. Woman-on-top and side-by-side keep pressure off tender nether regions.

TIP: Even if you’re nursing, you can get pregnant. The best postpartum contraceptive is a condom, since hormonal methods can interfere with lactation and diaphragms have to be refitted after childbirth.

Step 4: Moisturize Get a good lubricant. Both breastfeeding and a lowered libido due to exhaustion can cause vaginal dryness.

TIP: Use a water- or silicone-based lubricant when using a condom. Oil-based products, like petroleum jelly and massage oil, can break down the latex.

Step 5: Get creative Get creative about finding time to get busy. Do it while the baby naps or first thing in the morning. Grab a quickie wherever you can—the couch, the car, the kitchen.

TIP: Don’t worry about having sex while the baby is in the same room. She won’t have a clue what’s going on.